Sawankhalok: Seated Buddha

THAILAND, Sukhothai, Sawankhalok

The statue shows traits of the Sukhothai style during its mature stage. The head of the Buddha is covered with large dense curls and a flame ornament on the usnisa. The oval face has a rounded chin, arched eyebrows that join to the bridge of the nose, downcast eyes, and a mouth accentuated by dimples in the cheeks. The figure wears a nearly invisible monastic robe that leaves the right shoulder bare. A fold, often seen on Thai monastic robes, is arranged over the left shoulder. The Buddha has broad shoulders and a muscular chest that is accentuated by the vertical fall of the arms. The right hand is in bhumisparsa (earth-touching) mudra and the figure is seated in the half lotus position upon a flat base. An inscription is visible on the edge of the base.